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Kingdom of Betrayal #1
A Sky Like Blood
I belong to the Vandawolf.
My heart and my power are his to control.
I am a Blacksmith, a wielder of the arcane magic that once scorched our land and brought blood-storms to our skies. Now, I live at the mercy of the Vandawolf, the dark king whose power forced the Blacksmiths to their knees.
But the price for my life is high.
When his enemies scheme against him, I cut them down.
And when the storms rage, I'm sent to fight the monsters that rise from our damaged land.
To fail is to betray the Vandawolf, and my family will pay the price.
Then a breathtakingly beautiful man steps from the blood-rain, and I'm faced with a terrible choice.
Do I end him or save him?
Is he a man or a beast?
Betrayal is only a step away.
Content information: A Sky Like Blood is fantasy romance, enemies to lovers, the first in the Kingdom of Betrayal series. Recommended reading age is 17+ for sex scenes, mature themes, violence, and language. Ends on a cliffhanger.
My heart and my power are his to control.
I am a Blacksmith, a wielder of the arcane magic that once scorched our land and brought blood-storms to our skies. Now, I live at the mercy of the Vandawolf, the dark king whose power forced the Blacksmiths to their knees.
But the price for my life is high.
When his enemies scheme against him, I cut them down.
And when the storms rage, I'm sent to fight the monsters that rise from our damaged land.
To fail is to betray the Vandawolf, and my family will pay the price.
Then a breathtakingly beautiful man steps from the blood-rain, and I'm faced with a terrible choice.
Do I end him or save him?
Is he a man or a beast?
Betrayal is only a step away.
Content information: A Sky Like Blood is fantasy romance, enemies to lovers, the first in the Kingdom of Betrayal series. Recommended reading age is 17+ for sex scenes, mature themes, violence, and language. Ends on a cliffhanger.
362 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 2, 2023
517 people are currently reading
919 people want to read
About the author
Everly Frost
47 books1,121 followersUSA Today bestselling author Everly Frost writes fantasy romance and paranormal romance with badass female leads and morally grey heroes who fall first. When she isn't dreaming up spicy enemies to lovers romances, she's binge-watching Lord of the Rings, tending to her fur baby, or learning to sew. Subscribe to Everly's newsletter for a free novella today!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
August 11, 2023
Cool and unique premise but I wanted more enemies to lovers and less indentured servitude under threat of death. DNF 79%
August 11, 2023
couldn’t get behind supporting a relationship where the guy literally used her as slave for ten years. the relationship was straight up Stockholm syndrome.
July 1, 2023
A Sky Like Blood (Kingdom of Betrayal 1) by Everly Frost
Ohhh my words I knew I needed this book but I didn't truly know how much I would crave it! Jokes on me right? coz should've figured that one out with Everly. But of late I've been struggling to be truly snagged and captivated by a book and this book did all that for me. I'm not even kidding. This series is going to be a new favourite. I just know it.
I was hooked from the first page to this unique story that began to build. I know I say this a bit but Everly is a master story weaver...one minute I was reading and then a whole world came alive, transporting me to it in the blink of an eye; Easily being able to imagine the world practically instantly. What a skill that is. She just grabs you and keeps on going. Instant teleportation is totally a thing and you can't convince me otherwise.
There were so many aspects to this story that I loved. The characters for one were beautifully created which made them feel so authentic and real. The plot has all these intricate details that only left me wanting to know more about this world. It was such a unique take on a paranormal read of shifters created from magic but with Everly's own little twist. There are so many places this story can lead you and leaves you second-guessing everything and keeps you on the edge of your seat. Unable to put the book down. It felt, to me, like it was extremely well thought out (but not without making you think it was too much) and the story developed at the perfect pace and naturally too. The ebb and flow of information was on point. All I can say is...
Let's just touch briefly on what we are looking at for this story...well, we get some backstory right from the beginning. We start by seeing our F/MC at a young age facing the destruction of her people and fighting to keep her twin siblings safe. She's willing to give her life for them and if you hadn't already fallen for this character, this is the moment you will. She's willing to do anything just to keep them safe, even if that means becoming a captive to the new ruler of her city.
Blacksmiths once ran the town with a cruel fist but times have changed and now the Blacksmith has become the weapon used to protect the humans against the monsters, that threaten the town when the blood-rain falls. You are brought into a world where hybrid beings were created by the hand of a cruel Blacksmith (essentially what they sound like but they use their forging tools to imbue their power into their creations, so to speak - but I'm gonna leave some mystery to that) and a world on shaky grounds and facing a new threat. The majority of humans still live in their past hurt, that these Blacksmiths caused...and the last remaining one, under the thumb of their leader, the Vandawolf, is paying the price of that hurt. For a crime she never committed. In fact, she remains one of the strongest, pure and kind-hearted of women.
Be prepared to be brought into a world of power and a world where nothing is quite as it seems. There are twists and turns that'll have you hooked and you won't even know you're in trouble, if you even want to call it that, until it's too late. It got me hook, line and sinker. I'm done for. I'm weak when it comes to Everly...but this book is like the chocolate ganache on your favourite chocolate cake. And I'm gonna devour it with everything in me.
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Now let the waiting game commence. Ugh, I hate this part. When it comes to books, I'm not made for patience. I need more dangit!
But for Everly, I will try my best to not be a pest or nag but just know it will be HAARRRDD work. Until then I guess this will be me.
Thank you, Everly, for another series I can absolutely obsess over. You never cease to amaze me and all the new worlds you create. I really needed this book and the escape that it provided. And I cannot wait til I can get more. I just adored these characters and the story that's been created for us. This has become a new favourite of mine and I can't thank you enough for the new journey that we have set out on.
If you love fantasy-based books in unpredictable worlds, this is a book that I 1000% recommend you reading!! If you enjoyed books like From Blood and Ash by Jennifer Armentrout I think you are going to be dying to get your hands on this series! So be sure to preorder this incredible read that has me just needing, craving more. Be sure you are all ready for its release on the 2nd June! You can find it here ---> A Sky Like Blood.
In the meantime, I need to learn to somehow function after that book. Book-hangover alert. The crash back to reality was a long and jolting one.
I'm just going to leave you with one of my favourite quotes that stood out to me in this read:
"Always remember that you are strong." I draw Gallium closer as I hug them both. "Always remember that if you love someone with all your heart, you've already won any battle that might come your way."
Please note that I did receive this book as an ARC but as always this is my honest ramble on this book. Please note that I receive nothing in place for my honest review.
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Stay insane and happy reading!
Content information: A Sky Like Blood is fantasy romance, enemies to lovers, the first in the Kingdom of Betrayal series. Recommended reading age is 17+ for sex scenes, mature themes, violence, and language. Ends on a cliffhanger.
LINKS: AMAZON AU | AMAZON US | GOODREADS
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June 7, 2023
Oh my goodness. I just came off of reading ACOTAR and there were moments I wondered, “is this going to be similar with similar twists?” I’m not going to give anything away, but this author is wholly her own, and honestly, I liked this book (and the main character) better (don’t @ me).
The world is unique, with a Blacksmith being the main magical character. This isn’t your typical type of blacksmith, but if you love strong FMC, you’ll love Asha. Strong, humble, and fiercely loyal, this book sets Asha up for massive character development down the line. The ending is a cliffhanger, but you KNOW she’s about to shake things up in the next book. Her personality and feelings were dynamic but not unrealistic considering her circumstances.
This book was a wonderful intro to the series with good pacing and an unpredictable plot. I love the creativity with the brand of magic, but most importantly of all? The CONSENT! Omg. This is a slow burn novel, enemies to lovers, but I have very rarely seen such clear consent and discussion regarding the differing power dynamics in the main relationship. I am here 👏 for👏 it👏. I would say it’s a 3/5 spice. The love interest is flawed, but I find him more relatable and interesting compared to other main love interests who are “perfect”.
If you were thinking about this book before, or even if you weren’t, READ IT! You won’t regret it.
The world is unique, with a Blacksmith being the main magical character. This isn’t your typical type of blacksmith, but if you love strong FMC, you’ll love Asha. Strong, humble, and fiercely loyal, this book sets Asha up for massive character development down the line. The ending is a cliffhanger, but you KNOW she’s about to shake things up in the next book. Her personality and feelings were dynamic but not unrealistic considering her circumstances.
This book was a wonderful intro to the series with good pacing and an unpredictable plot. I love the creativity with the brand of magic, but most importantly of all? The CONSENT! Omg. This is a slow burn novel, enemies to lovers, but I have very rarely seen such clear consent and discussion regarding the differing power dynamics in the main relationship. I am here 👏 for👏 it👏. I would say it’s a 3/5 spice. The love interest is flawed, but I find him more relatable and interesting compared to other main love interests who are “perfect”.
If you were thinking about this book before, or even if you weren’t, READ IT! You won’t regret it.
June 4, 2023
Warning, this story will grab you, never let you go, and haunt you long after you read the last page.
Everyly Frost has such a gift with story telling, world building and character development, I expected nothing less than to like this story. But they way she wrote the relationship between the Vandawolf and Asha brought them alive in my mind and I can’t stop thinking about what is next for them and eagerly awaiting more.
If you’re looking for your next captivating read, look no further. Just make sure you have snacks handy, because once you start reading, you will not want to put it down.
Everyly Frost has such a gift with story telling, world building and character development, I expected nothing less than to like this story. But they way she wrote the relationship between the Vandawolf and Asha brought them alive in my mind and I can’t stop thinking about what is next for them and eagerly awaiting more.
If you’re looking for your next captivating read, look no further. Just make sure you have snacks handy, because once you start reading, you will not want to put it down.
June 6, 2023
Wow!!! One of the best books I’ve read so far!! Have I become emotionally attached to the characters yes do I love this book also yes will I be rereading this book and eagerly waiting for the next one to release also yes. Loved it so much!!
July 30, 2024
So disappointed, the mmc was a shit with 0 personality and uses the fmc as his own slave. This book was 0 good and so regret starting this serie
June 13, 2023
Heads up: I was an ARC reader for Everly Frost because I love her books so much
With that said, I didn't enjoy this one as much as I was hoping. Everly can write some AMAZING enemies to lovers stories (like in the Bright Wicked series - one of my favorites!) but this one just didn't do it for me. Clearly I am in the minority because so many others loved it so much.
Asha, our main character, I can totally get behind. She would do anything to save her family and makes a deal with the Vandawolf for their safety. He spares her (and them) and for the last 10 years, since all the other Blacksmith's in the city were killed, the Vandawolf has sent Asha out countless times to kill monsters that appear outside the city gates. She does this time and again, constantly putting herself at risk, so that her siblings will be protected. That I get. This thing I'm just not totally feeling is her relationship with the Vandawolf.
I know Asha has a big heart, compassion and empathy. But the fact that the Vandawolf treats her terribly for A DECADE, even if it was partially to keep others from killing her, I could just not get over. He even says multiple times throughout the book that he didn't realize she didn't have warm water, or that her room was always freezing and he should of...10 years later. Even throughout this book, he's kind of hot and cold, which he has to be because of their positions in the city. But still - usually with Everly's books, I'm dying for the first kiss scene or the realization that the characters love each other. For some reason I guess I just didn't see enough change in the Vandawolf, or really why Asha cared about him so much, to be cheering on their relationship like I normally would.
This has happened before with previous series where I'm not sure about the first book but love the rest, so I'm hoping I'll get to see Asha and the Vandawolf's relationship develop more.
Ends on a big cliffhanger, so be prepared!
With that said, I didn't enjoy this one as much as I was hoping. Everly can write some AMAZING enemies to lovers stories (like in the Bright Wicked series - one of my favorites!) but this one just didn't do it for me. Clearly I am in the minority because so many others loved it so much.
Asha, our main character, I can totally get behind. She would do anything to save her family and makes a deal with the Vandawolf for their safety. He spares her (and them) and for the last 10 years, since all the other Blacksmith's in the city were killed, the Vandawolf has sent Asha out countless times to kill monsters that appear outside the city gates. She does this time and again, constantly putting herself at risk, so that her siblings will be protected. That I get. This thing I'm just not totally feeling is her relationship with the Vandawolf.
I know Asha has a big heart, compassion and empathy. But the fact that the Vandawolf treats her terribly for A DECADE, even if it was partially to keep others from killing her, I could just not get over. He even says multiple times throughout the book that he didn't realize she didn't have warm water, or that her room was always freezing and he should of...10 years later. Even throughout this book, he's kind of hot and cold, which he has to be because of their positions in the city. But still - usually with Everly's books, I'm dying for the first kiss scene or the realization that the characters love each other. For some reason I guess I just didn't see enough change in the Vandawolf, or really why Asha cared about him so much, to be cheering on their relationship like I normally would.
This has happened before with previous series where I'm not sure about the first book but love the rest, so I'm hoping I'll get to see Asha and the Vandawolf's relationship develop more.
Ends on a big cliffhanger, so be prepared!
June 4, 2023
First book in a fantastical series! Since it is the first book there is some world building going on. This is of course weaved into the story so well that you do not even realize that the author is building a whole knew world until the book is over.
We meet Vandawolf fairly early on in the story, he is the main male character. The Blacksmith Malak had tried to do magical genetic modifications and instead created the Vandawolf- half man, half wolf. As ruler of the kingdom, you would expect the subjects to love and revere him. After all he did free them of the tyrannical Blacksmiths that ruled over them. The genetic modifications, however, make his subjects afraid and wry of him. He does all that he can to hold the kingdom together and to fight the monsters that come their way.
Asha is the last Blacksmith in the kingdom, she is also a prisoner of war. A sword really for the king, against the monsters that arrive. The people do not understand her role in keeping them safe though, and she is very much hated. Her siblings’ powers were stolen from them and so they are not considered Blacksmiths anymore. They are still pretty much hated by the rest of the villagers. Not as much as Asha though. Asha would do anything to protect them, even if it means that she has no say in her life whatsoever.
I love these two characters! Their relationship and chemistry are off the charts! The banter between them even when they do not realize they are bantering is a thing of beauty.
An enemy is coming, and one is already among them. Will Asha be enough to fight them or will she falter? Will she betray the Vandawolf or will it be someone else? Don’t look to me for the answers-read the book! I cannot recommend it enough!
My Rating 5 out of 5 stars
Favorite Quote “Love is more powerful than fear and hate combined.
Other People
Braddock- A guard who I won’t mind Asha hurting
Rachel- Asha’s guard
Gallium- Asha’s baby brother
Tamara- Asha’s baby sister
Thaden Kane- hybrid human/ dragon
We meet Vandawolf fairly early on in the story, he is the main male character. The Blacksmith Malak had tried to do magical genetic modifications and instead created the Vandawolf- half man, half wolf. As ruler of the kingdom, you would expect the subjects to love and revere him. After all he did free them of the tyrannical Blacksmiths that ruled over them. The genetic modifications, however, make his subjects afraid and wry of him. He does all that he can to hold the kingdom together and to fight the monsters that come their way.
Asha is the last Blacksmith in the kingdom, she is also a prisoner of war. A sword really for the king, against the monsters that arrive. The people do not understand her role in keeping them safe though, and she is very much hated. Her siblings’ powers were stolen from them and so they are not considered Blacksmiths anymore. They are still pretty much hated by the rest of the villagers. Not as much as Asha though. Asha would do anything to protect them, even if it means that she has no say in her life whatsoever.
I love these two characters! Their relationship and chemistry are off the charts! The banter between them even when they do not realize they are bantering is a thing of beauty.
An enemy is coming, and one is already among them. Will Asha be enough to fight them or will she falter? Will she betray the Vandawolf or will it be someone else? Don’t look to me for the answers-read the book! I cannot recommend it enough!
My Rating 5 out of 5 stars
Favorite Quote “Love is more powerful than fear and hate combined.
Other People
Braddock- A guard who I won’t mind Asha hurting
Rachel- Asha’s guard
Gallium- Asha’s baby brother
Tamara- Asha’s baby sister
Thaden Kane- hybrid human/ dragon
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2023
Reimagined Beauty & the Beast Includes Powerfully Relatable Heroine & Unique Magic System
Author Everly Frost uses her story-telling mastery to refresh a ‘tale as old as time’, gripping readers in an enthralling story. Main character, Asha, is well cast and developed, but with room to grow as her story progresses. Her motivations are so achingly familiar that she is someone I can cheer on and with whom I can easily identify. I also very much enjoyed that Author Frost identified, acknowledged, and named the power dynamics in the relationship between Asha and the Vandawolf (the hero) - something I feel is often missing in retellings like this one. While I did notice a few minor grammatical issues, it was not enough for me to remove any stars from my rating because I truly enjoyed this book, will highly recommend it to others, and reread it. True to form, Everly Frost has woven a world and magic unlike any I have ever read. Go get yourself a copy!
Let’s break it down:
🩸Length: Novel
🐺Genre: Fantasy Romance
🔨POV: First person, female main character
🩸Age: Adult
🐺Warnings: Language, sexual content, violence
🔨Spice: Moderate heat (2.5 of 5) - The relationship is still building; there are encounters on page, but it’s not overly descriptive, nor the focus of the story
🩸Violence: This is a violent, war-torn world with violently evil villains. Much of the violence is battle-focused action; some torture.
🐺Editing: I noticed one or two minor word choice issues, but nothing that pulled me from the story
🔨Series: Kingdom of Betrayal: Book 1
🩸Tropes: Enemies-to-lovers, captive-captor, morally grey protagonists, forced proximity,
🐺Ending: It’s a cliffhanger. I can’t wait for more!
🔨Re-read? Yes!
🩸Recommendation: You need to read this book! Get yourself a copy now.
Author Everly Frost uses her story-telling mastery to refresh a ‘tale as old as time’, gripping readers in an enthralling story. Main character, Asha, is well cast and developed, but with room to grow as her story progresses. Her motivations are so achingly familiar that she is someone I can cheer on and with whom I can easily identify. I also very much enjoyed that Author Frost identified, acknowledged, and named the power dynamics in the relationship between Asha and the Vandawolf (the hero) - something I feel is often missing in retellings like this one. While I did notice a few minor grammatical issues, it was not enough for me to remove any stars from my rating because I truly enjoyed this book, will highly recommend it to others, and reread it. True to form, Everly Frost has woven a world and magic unlike any I have ever read. Go get yourself a copy!
Let’s break it down:
🩸Length: Novel
🐺Genre: Fantasy Romance
🔨POV: First person, female main character
🩸Age: Adult
🐺Warnings: Language, sexual content, violence
🔨Spice: Moderate heat (2.5 of 5) - The relationship is still building; there are encounters on page, but it’s not overly descriptive, nor the focus of the story
🩸Violence: This is a violent, war-torn world with violently evil villains. Much of the violence is battle-focused action; some torture.
🐺Editing: I noticed one or two minor word choice issues, but nothing that pulled me from the story
🔨Series: Kingdom of Betrayal: Book 1
🩸Tropes: Enemies-to-lovers, captive-captor, morally grey protagonists, forced proximity,
🐺Ending: It’s a cliffhanger. I can’t wait for more!
🔨Re-read? Yes!
🩸Recommendation: You need to read this book! Get yourself a copy now.
June 1, 2023
I have been a huge fan of Everly Frost for quite some time, and she just keeps getting better! This new world is fascinating and while every world has plenty of detail (not too much, just the right amount), it feels like this series is getting a little bit more world building. This is a tough review to write because, like always, I do not want to provide spoilers, but I want you to read this because it is so worth your time if you love fantasy worlds and strong male and female characters. This is book 1, and ends on a cliffhanger, but wow! does the ending make you want to see just how Asha responds!!! With the current real world as crazy as it is, what resonates here is regardless of the evil around you, love is the most powerful thing and worth the pain. Asha has strong family ties that are used to keep her in check by the Vandawolf, but they also keep her grounded, focused, and give her purpose. We still have much to learn about the Vandawolf, and I am looking forward to more in this world! It’s fantastic!
June 24, 2023
I’m absolutely addicted to Everly Frost’s books, but this new world is my new favorite! There are bits and pieces of Beauty and the Beast sprinkled throughout, without reading the same traditional (and sometimes boring) storyline. This new world is unique, and thrilling, with a resemblance to Pacific Rim with the new and different monsters spawning in one location each time for Asha to battle.
Of course, Frost writes nothing but fierce heroines who aren’t afraid to fight some monsters to protect those they love. Asha’s backstory is tragic yet captivating, and full of mystery; and especially what magic, if any, her siblings carry. I love the darkness in the storyline, without overstepping into being overwhelming. There’s always a spark of hope, and watching Asha navigate her budding feelings for the Vandawolf, while fighting for that hope is captivating till the very last page. Brace yourself for a cliffhanger though! Yet in my opinion, it makes this series that much more enticing. Love love love!!!!
Of course, Frost writes nothing but fierce heroines who aren’t afraid to fight some monsters to protect those they love. Asha’s backstory is tragic yet captivating, and full of mystery; and especially what magic, if any, her siblings carry. I love the darkness in the storyline, without overstepping into being overwhelming. There’s always a spark of hope, and watching Asha navigate her budding feelings for the Vandawolf, while fighting for that hope is captivating till the very last page. Brace yourself for a cliffhanger though! Yet in my opinion, it makes this series that much more enticing. Love love love!!!!
June 1, 2023
Wow!
Asha, one of the last blacksmiths (her younger siblings drained of their power) has to guard the city and people who wish for her death, all at the command of the Vandawolf! A human who was merged with a wolf leaving him with partial wolf features.
Every time the sky clouds over and storms come they bring with them rain made of blood and creatures created for destruction! Asha has to fight them on her own!
Everly has created another fantasy world with a strong female who at this stage is under a strong male but hopefully we see Asha stride forward and be the boss lady!
I also love the sass from Tamra! And do I hint a future love for her!!!
There is action all the way and a bit if spice between Vandawolf and Asha. Also, cliffhanger!! Yeah these are becoming more brutal but in the best way!!!
Asha, one of the last blacksmiths (her younger siblings drained of their power) has to guard the city and people who wish for her death, all at the command of the Vandawolf! A human who was merged with a wolf leaving him with partial wolf features.
Every time the sky clouds over and storms come they bring with them rain made of blood and creatures created for destruction! Asha has to fight them on her own!
Everly has created another fantasy world with a strong female who at this stage is under a strong male but hopefully we see Asha stride forward and be the boss lady!
I also love the sass from Tamra! And do I hint a future love for her!!!
There is action all the way and a bit if spice between Vandawolf and Asha. Also, cliffhanger!! Yeah these are becoming more brutal but in the best way!!!
July 14, 2023
Five stars is not enough!!
She does it again! Everly is a unique author that gives you all the feels EVERY SINGLE TIME! I cant get enough! Her stories are captivating from start to finish! Dark fantasy well
done! The first chapter had me bawling! That heartbreaking scene of hopelessness and self sacrifice… #siblingsLove like no other.
“Then take my life,” I whisper. “Take my life in front of your people so that they can be done with their vengeance. Let your justice end with me. Not with these children.” 💔😭
And then we have Asha and Vandawolf. OMGAHG!!! 🖤!!! Their story is unique, gut wrenching and enemies to frenemies..doom from the beginning… or is it? This story has everything a dark fantasy should have! From
epic monsters, non stop action, angsty romance, blood-family, Grey morally heroes, and frenemies unite!! Everyone needs to read this asap!
She does it again! Everly is a unique author that gives you all the feels EVERY SINGLE TIME! I cant get enough! Her stories are captivating from start to finish! Dark fantasy well
done! The first chapter had me bawling! That heartbreaking scene of hopelessness and self sacrifice… #siblingsLove like no other.
“Then take my life,” I whisper. “Take my life in front of your people so that they can be done with their vengeance. Let your justice end with me. Not with these children.” 💔😭
And then we have Asha and Vandawolf. OMGAHG!!! 🖤!!! Their story is unique, gut wrenching and enemies to frenemies..doom from the beginning… or is it? This story has everything a dark fantasy should have! From
epic monsters, non stop action, angsty romance, blood-family, Grey morally heroes, and frenemies unite!! Everyone needs to read this asap!
November 9, 2023
What I Liked:
The push/pull between Asha and the Vandawolf and the unknown of whether he's being caring or manipulative is utterly delicious.
What I Didn't Really Like:
I'm a little unclear on what exactly gives Blacksmiths their power, where they came from, their history, and whether there are any other sources of magic in this world.
Overall:
Romantic Fantasy lovers should definitely put this on their tbr list. It is the first book of three and it does end on a cliffhanger. However, it's a great cliffhanger. The future is uncertain and I want to find out what happens but a stage of Asha's life has come to an end giving a sense of resolution as well. As of this review the third book of the sereis was not yet published, so keep that in mind if you don't like having to wait to jump to the next book in rapid order.
The push/pull between Asha and the Vandawolf and the unknown of whether he's being caring or manipulative is utterly delicious.
What I Didn't Really Like:
I'm a little unclear on what exactly gives Blacksmiths their power, where they came from, their history, and whether there are any other sources of magic in this world.
Overall:
Romantic Fantasy lovers should definitely put this on their tbr list. It is the first book of three and it does end on a cliffhanger. However, it's a great cliffhanger. The future is uncertain and I want to find out what happens but a stage of Asha's life has come to an end giving a sense of resolution as well. As of this review the third book of the sereis was not yet published, so keep that in mind if you don't like having to wait to jump to the next book in rapid order.
June 8, 2024
well now…
I wasn’t prepared to love this book so much! And lemme tell you, it definitely starts out with a bang!! There is immediate action and intrigue. I loved all the mystery. You get Asha’s back story right away but her present unfolds slowly and peeled in layers. I cannot believe some of the things I’ve learn and then my jaw stayed dropped open. So Vandawolf starts out as the bad guy. Except, he isn’t, it’s just that no one knows it. Even he thinks he’s the bad guy. I love that Asha just wanted to protect her family. She’ll do anything to protect them. Her childhood is awful. Seriously, like my whole heart hurts. But as we meet characters- both good and bad- it’s a beautiful disaster that is magical. I also love the depths the author has made for each character. And the magic and world building- spectacular! I’m hooked.
I wasn’t prepared to love this book so much! And lemme tell you, it definitely starts out with a bang!! There is immediate action and intrigue. I loved all the mystery. You get Asha’s back story right away but her present unfolds slowly and peeled in layers. I cannot believe some of the things I’ve learn and then my jaw stayed dropped open. So Vandawolf starts out as the bad guy. Except, he isn’t, it’s just that no one knows it. Even he thinks he’s the bad guy. I love that Asha just wanted to protect her family. She’ll do anything to protect them. Her childhood is awful. Seriously, like my whole heart hurts. But as we meet characters- both good and bad- it’s a beautiful disaster that is magical. I also love the depths the author has made for each character. And the magic and world building- spectacular! I’m hooked.
February 2, 2025
Epic Romantasy! A MUST READ 🩷🩷🩷
It has been a while since I have enjoyed so much a romantasy book! This is one of those rare gems you find in KU (kindle unlimited) world. Asha and her siblings are separated at a young age due to the sins of their people. Asha, the eldest is tasked with fighting the monsters that plague their city under the command of her captor “the Vandawolf”. There is so much more to this story than meets the eye. Everly Frost has managed to create an intricate and fascinating story that will have you hooked from beginning to end. I cannot wait to see what happens next and hope that the second book continues to be as intoxicating as this first book. Please note, this is just the first of a series. It ends on a shocking cliffhanger. Highly Recommended 💥💥💥
It has been a while since I have enjoyed so much a romantasy book! This is one of those rare gems you find in KU (kindle unlimited) world. Asha and her siblings are separated at a young age due to the sins of their people. Asha, the eldest is tasked with fighting the monsters that plague their city under the command of her captor “the Vandawolf”. There is so much more to this story than meets the eye. Everly Frost has managed to create an intricate and fascinating story that will have you hooked from beginning to end. I cannot wait to see what happens next and hope that the second book continues to be as intoxicating as this first book. Please note, this is just the first of a series. It ends on a shocking cliffhanger. Highly Recommended 💥💥💥
June 9, 2023
Oh my goodness! This book dragged me in from the very first page and I couldn’t put it down! Everly Frost is always so amazing at creating unique/interesting worlds and this book is no exception. As the last blacksmith, Asha has fought countless monsters outside the city gates for the past decade after making a deal with the Vandawolf to spare her siblings’ lives. Asha is a humble, loyal, and compassionate FMC and is always thinking about others over herself. I’m still not totally sold on the Vandawolf and Asha’s relationship, but Everly always does such a good job writing enemies to lovers so I’m sure the Vandawolf will redeem himself in the next books. This book does end on a massive cliffhanger so I will be anxiously waiting for book 2!
January 31, 2024
Book 1 in Kingdom of Betrayal series
Beauty and the Beast with a unique magical twist centered around a bargain made out of love and protection, yet living a life of obedience with no freedom in sight while fighting a battle between light and dark. It's a book about family and sacrifice, surviving when all hope is lost, looking beyond the physical, desiring for freedom, and making impossible choices. I can hardly wait for book 2 because that cliffhanger ending left me wanting more.
Well-developed, strong characters. Detailed world building. Intriguing plot.
"Fight to live."
"Love is more powerful than hate and fear combined."
"You and I are the same because we're both surviving within the boundaries of the hand we were dealt."
Beauty and the Beast with a unique magical twist centered around a bargain made out of love and protection, yet living a life of obedience with no freedom in sight while fighting a battle between light and dark. It's a book about family and sacrifice, surviving when all hope is lost, looking beyond the physical, desiring for freedom, and making impossible choices. I can hardly wait for book 2 because that cliffhanger ending left me wanting more.
Well-developed, strong characters. Detailed world building. Intriguing plot.
"Fight to live."
"Love is more powerful than hate and fear combined."
"You and I are the same because we're both surviving within the boundaries of the hand we were dealt."
August 15, 2025
The slow burn in this was excruciatinggggggg (I literally know it’s supposed to be a slow burn but still). Although, I enjoyed the torture. I really like the plot of this book, it’s very unique. I was reallly looking for an epic fantasy read and this definitely fit the bill.
Asha is a great FMC: she’s strong, loyal, and fierce in the face of the malice that is a part of her tools. As for the MMC, I have no clue whether it’s the Vandawolf or Thaden. This could very well be a Tamlin situation so TBD.
It was a bit slow at some parts but the author did a good job at keeping me engaged for the most part. That cliff hanger was something I didn’t see coming at all! I’m excited to see where the next 3 books will take me since it’s not very clear as to what a reader can expect.
Asha is a great FMC: she’s strong, loyal, and fierce in the face of the malice that is a part of her tools. As for the MMC, I have no clue whether it’s the Vandawolf or Thaden. This could very well be a Tamlin situation so TBD.
It was a bit slow at some parts but the author did a good job at keeping me engaged for the most part. That cliff hanger was something I didn’t see coming at all! I’m excited to see where the next 3 books will take me since it’s not very clear as to what a reader can expect.
May 24, 2023
This stunner of a book blew me away!!
Everyly has created yet another super unique and super interesting world filled with hybrid experiments, the mundane humans, magic, powers, Blacksmiths which are like alchemists and so many other awesome things.
The characters are spot on and I can't wait to delve more into their personalities in the next book.
If you are looking for a book with Intrigue, angst, asking the question "what is going to happen next?", tension between fmc and mmc, multiple potential love interest but really only one lol, great side characters and an evolving world than this is the book for you!
Everyly has created yet another super unique and super interesting world filled with hybrid experiments, the mundane humans, magic, powers, Blacksmiths which are like alchemists and so many other awesome things.
The characters are spot on and I can't wait to delve more into their personalities in the next book.
If you are looking for a book with Intrigue, angst, asking the question "what is going to happen next?", tension between fmc and mmc, multiple potential love interest but really only one lol, great side characters and an evolving world than this is the book for you!
June 1, 2023
A new series from Everly Frost you say! Feels like I’ve been waiting a lifetime but as always this does not disappoint. Everly has this unique way of crafting worlds and characters that are ultimately flawed but are redeemable.
The Vandawolf for instance is so utterly complex that for most of the story you just can’t figure him out. He plays the role of many things so well that it’s difficult to determine is he the good guy or the bad guy.
This is a great opening to the series and that ending had me both utterly baffled and weeping at the turn of events…. I can’t wait for the next book…..
The Vandawolf for instance is so utterly complex that for most of the story you just can’t figure him out. He plays the role of many things so well that it’s difficult to determine is he the good guy or the bad guy.
This is a great opening to the series and that ending had me both utterly baffled and weeping at the turn of events…. I can’t wait for the next book…..
June 4, 2023
Beautifully breathtaking with phenomenal storytelling are wrapped up in a perfect little bookish bow. This is fantasy unlike anything before. Betrayal, lust, responsibility and heart-torturing moments will keep you riveted to each page.
Asha is complicated but so is the Vandawolf and together they're both blindingly brilliant. The heat that pushes and pulls them is filled with delicious angst.
Will they or won't they and how will it happen alongside the battle action keeps you in suspense. No one writes like Everly Frost! This is the perfect read to both entertain and take you along an adventure.
Asha is complicated but so is the Vandawolf and together they're both blindingly brilliant. The heat that pushes and pulls them is filled with delicious angst.
Will they or won't they and how will it happen alongside the battle action keeps you in suspense. No one writes like Everly Frost! This is the perfect read to both entertain and take you along an adventure.
June 6, 2023
It’s always such a treat to read Everly Frost’s book since they are always so well written with great characters and stories! This is the start to a new series of hers and oh boy it’s amazing! Asha will do anything to protect her siblings, even if she has to do whatever the Vandawolf commands. She’s the last Blacksmith and he uses her to end his enemies. I really like Asha and her magic is very cool. I also love the new world this story is set in! I can’t wait to read more about it! There’s twists and turns and it was a hard book to put down, that’s for sure. I can’t wait for book 2!
I received an ARC from the author and I’m voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an ARC from the author and I’m voluntarily leaving an honest review.
February 19, 2024
So good!
A new world! So great to read something that is different from all the fantasy books that are out there right now! It was such a great new idea on power and world building, I loved it! Asha was a strong, determined and devoted FMC and the Vandawolf was a sneaky and deeply determined MMC as well. The lengths he went to keep her save (and himself) might not have been the greatest, but he did it out of love for her and to give her freedom. I cannot wait until the next one!!
Thank you Ms Frost for this new and interesting world that we get to dive into and be a part of!
A new world! So great to read something that is different from all the fantasy books that are out there right now! It was such a great new idea on power and world building, I loved it! Asha was a strong, determined and devoted FMC and the Vandawolf was a sneaky and deeply determined MMC as well. The lengths he went to keep her save (and himself) might not have been the greatest, but he did it out of love for her and to give her freedom. I cannot wait until the next one!!
Thank you Ms Frost for this new and interesting world that we get to dive into and be a part of!
June 15, 2023
An enthralling world
The world is well done and unique. The story has many twists and reveals more but becomes even more dangerous for our main characters as time goes on.
The characters are different and varied. The main characters relationship is antagonistic for sure but changes a little too quickly in my opinion, hence the loss of one star.
Overall, the book is quite good and ends at a not too crazy ending/cliff hanger. I see it as a true ending of the origin of these characters and the start of something new. I'll definitely be waiting for book two.
The world is well done and unique. The story has many twists and reveals more but becomes even more dangerous for our main characters as time goes on.
The characters are different and varied. The main characters relationship is antagonistic for sure but changes a little too quickly in my opinion, hence the loss of one star.
Overall, the book is quite good and ends at a not too crazy ending/cliff hanger. I see it as a true ending of the origin of these characters and the start of something new. I'll definitely be waiting for book two.
July 8, 2023
Utterly Predictable
I really wanted to enjoy this and it was hard to. The storytelling was there, but it almost felt like Frost wanted to build this huge world but forgot that she needed to stay grounded in her main characters.
Clearly there will be a spin-off or a side plot/romance involving Thandon and Tamara.
I just didn’t understand the point of the ending.
To be honest it reminds me of the caged wolf series. An extremely interesting premise, but due to the introduction of so many things the series lost its appeal towards the end of book one.
I really wanted to enjoy this and it was hard to. The storytelling was there, but it almost felt like Frost wanted to build this huge world but forgot that she needed to stay grounded in her main characters.
Clearly there will be a spin-off or a side plot/romance involving Thandon and Tamara.
I just didn’t understand the point of the ending.
To be honest it reminds me of the caged wolf series. An extremely interesting premise, but due to the introduction of so many things the series lost its appeal towards the end of book one.
August 1, 2023
A Sky Like Blood, the first book of the Kingdom of Betrayal series, is an ebook I borrowed through Kindle Unlimited (KU). It's frustrating to find out book two isn't scheduled for release until May 2023, but I really enjoyed the writer's unique world-building and characters that stayed true to their personalities--this consistency made for fewer surprise reveals, but the real beauty to the story lies in the choices and consequences each character makes. I've already scheduled a re-read for this book a week before book two comes out in 2024.
November 24, 2024
Twist and turns
I really didn’t see that cliffhanger coming! Asha stands in front of her younger siblings and ask for their safety after the Vandawolf kills all of her people for the horrible things they have done. In order to keep her siblings safe she must fight every beast that is sent to their land. Years have gone by and now her siblings are older and want to help her escape. But the Vandawolf still uses her siblings to control her. The people turn on them and everything she thought she knew about the Vandawolf was wrong!
I really didn’t see that cliffhanger coming! Asha stands in front of her younger siblings and ask for their safety after the Vandawolf kills all of her people for the horrible things they have done. In order to keep her siblings safe she must fight every beast that is sent to their land. Years have gone by and now her siblings are older and want to help her escape. But the Vandawolf still uses her siblings to control her. The people turn on them and everything she thought she knew about the Vandawolf was wrong!
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